Funeral service for Joseph A. Birch, 83, of Richville will be held on Wednesday, July 12, 2017 at 3:00 pm at the O’Leary Funeral Home in Canton, with Rev. Michael Tomford, officiating. Burial will follow in the North Russell Cemetery. Joe died on Saturday, July 8, 2017 at the Gouverneur Hospital after being stricken at home.

Calling hours will be held on Wednesday from 1:00 pm until the time of the service. Contributions in his memory may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project, PO Box 758517, Topeka, Kansas 66675.

Joe is survived by a son, Michael Birch of Clare, two step-sons, Michael (Cathy) Carr of Richville; Randy (Dawn) Carr of Ogdensburg; four step-daughters, Pam Gotham of NC; Lena (Rick) Gollinger of Pierrepont; Christine Carr of Edwards and Shari Carr of Canton; a daughter-in-law, Lisa Carr. Also surviving are 50 grandchildren; 88 great-grandchildren and 11 great-great grandchildren and a sister, Peggy.

He is predeceased by his wife, Patrica; by step-sons, Cleo and Terry Carr; by a son-in-law, Leo Gotham; daughter-in-law, Karen Carr and by five grandchildren.

Joe was born November 11, 1933 in Amsterdam, NY, the son of the late, Stephen and Margaret (Dugan) Birch. He attended schools near Amsterdam and enlisted in the US Army, serving in Korea. On August 25, 1990, he was married to Patricia Coffey in Gloversville, NY.

Joe worked as a chef in various restaurants across the state before settling in Richville and working at the Cascade for a time and retiring from the St. Lawrence Inn. He enjoyed watching westerns, traveling and cooking.

Memories and condolences may be shared online by visiting www.olearyfuneralservice.com.